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Sometimes a song hits us so hard that we have to take a minute to fully appreciate it. We step back and listen again, and again, and again. We let it wash over us and wrap itself around us, goosebumps rising on our arms as it passes gossamer like over our skin. Sometimes this happens and we end up getting a little lost in a heady fugue caused by the dense beauty of a track. Sometimes it almost becomes difficult to write about it as our head is spinning and it’s hard to think. Listening to “Can I Exist” by Missio has been one of those times.

Regular readers will know that we are kind of preprogrammed to like atmospheric, sparse, moving electronica. The likes of Aquilo, Harry Edwards, MK Grands, Isovert, IYES and many others have all graced these digital pages over the years and all have left clutching rave reviews and truckloads of hyperbole in their extremely talented hands. So really it is no wonder that we fell for Missio, the only surprise is that it’s taken us so long.

There are myriad ways in which “Can I Exist” is fantastic, not least how it sounds. It deals in part with depression, which is something we (and thousands of others) can instantly relate to. What is particularly remarkable here is that the track manages to feel simultaneously like a grand wide open space and a tight, claustrophobic container. As it builds, the melody swells and the rhythm feels more urgent, it’s like trying to break free and smash your way out of this darkness that you are trapped by. A feeling that we can certainly recognise.

Despite this weight, this gravitas that is carries, it is not necessary to have had this experience and emotional empathy to enjoy “Can I Exist”. Just as a piece of music it is rather stunning. It’s moonlit snowstorm beautiful and you just have to take a minute to fully appreciate the majesty of this emotional tundra that lays before you.

In all honesty, we’ve taken more than a minute. We’ve taken a few days and tens of repeat plays. That’s just us though and however you take your Missio, it will always sound gorgeous.